Updated Lexus GX revealed with massive grille, new off-road pack

By: CAR magazine

Lexus has taken the wraps off its updated GX, handing the luxury SUV a massive new version of the brand’s signature spindle grille as well as an optional off-road package.

Although the GX isn’t offered in South Africa, it’s worth noting it shares much with the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado.

The three-row GX460 wears an updated spindle grille, flanked by new triple-beam LED headlamps. In some markets, a Sport Design Package adds a model-specific lower grille surround, rear valence and side-mirror caps, along with a matte-black tailpipe, “scarlet” taillamps and 19-inch alloy wheels finished in “Gunmetal Metallic”.

Inside, you’ll find a wood- and leather-trimmed heated steering wheel and plenty of semi-aniline leather.

The naturally aspirated 4,6-litre V8 petrol engine produces 225 kW and 446 N.m, and is mated to a full-time automatic four-wheel-drive system. A Torsen limited-slip centre differential distributes power 40:60 front to rear under most driving conditions and changes the ratio as needed based on wheel slip. The four-wheel-drive arrangement offers a low range for slow-speed off-road driving, while the centre differential can be electronically locked.

Systems such as downhill assist control, hill-start assist control, active traction control, vehicle stability control and crawl control are also offered. The firm’s kinetic dynamic suspension system is employed, while an adaptive variable suspension arrangement is furthermore be offered.

The new off-road package includes panoramic view monitors, a transmission cooler, a fuel-tank protector, the aforementioned crawl control and the brand’s multi-terrain select system.

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